Far from simply supplying the TCA with a cash injection, CompTIA will merge its resources and members with the UK trade body, forging a more holistic and powerful group of businesses.

Matthew Poyiadgi, CompTIA’s European VP said: "CompTIA and the TCA are uniting to create largest UK trade association, and one of largest in Europe. It provides a powerful choice and platform for UK resellers – creating the new CompTIA/TCA community, whose job it is to better serve UK resellers."

Robert French, chairman of the TCA added: "It's something we've been working on for over a year, and it will really give us a benefit in terms of research, advise, and creating more events."

Poyiadgi concluded: "It's a really important move for both of our organisations. We will be looking to attract new members, and also attract former members to come back."

More details of the deal will emerge at the TCA member conference, held tomorrow (Wednesday October 20th) at the Radisson Edwardian Hotel, Heathrow.